“Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid.”
(Matthew 14:27)
This very statement Jesus made is tied to a fierce storm. It was raging, the foaming waves rose and fell, they hit hard, whipping waters broke over into the boat through the night. The disciples were petrified, until dawn, when they heard His voice speak. saying, “It is I.”
They doubted at first. At first we might doubt too, when storms rage in our lives. Yet, the Lord orchestrates all things and asks us to take courage, not in ourselves, but in the great I AM.
Where was Jesus when they were in the storm? He was praying for their victory. He was nearby.
“Take” is a verb that means to grasp, seize or acquire something.
He wants us to acquire trust. To grasp that He’s the refiner of our faith. Our constant. 
He desires a triumphant outcome, a response that echoes that of His disciples. “Those who were in the boat worshipped Him, saying, truly you are the Son of God.” (Matt 14:33)
Hear His voice speak, “It is I.”
I’m with you and for you, refining you, forming you, praying for you, revealing to you my powerful presence and character that never changes.
“Take” Him at His word. Seize it.
“Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid, do not panic. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”(Dut 31:6)
“When Christ is in the vessel, we can have peace in the storm.”
“He knows where I am going. (He knows what He is doing) And when He tests me (in a storm) I will come out as pure as gold. For I have stayed on His path; I’ve followed His ways (His voice of truth) & not turned aside. I have not departed from His truth, I’ve treasured His words more than daily food.” (Job 23:10-12)
“The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, shining ever brighter in its full strength and glory until that full day.” (Proverbs 4:18)
Let the winds die down and the truth soak in. He is Immanuel, “through” all things.
God With Us By: Terrian
